Giffords stepping down from Congress

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WASHINGTON- Rep. Gabrielle Giffords will step down from Congress this week, her staff said today, and not seek re-election when her current term expires this year.

"I have more work to do on my recovery and so to do what is best for Arizona I will step down this week," Giffords said in a video posted online Sunday. "Thank you for your prayers and for giving me time to recover."

The full statement from Giffords:

"Arizona is my home, always will be. A lot has happened over the past year. We need to not change that but I know on the issues we fought for we can change things for the better. We can do so much more by working together. I don't remember much from that horrible day but I will never forget the trust you placed in be to be your voice. Thank you for your prayers and for giving me time to recover. I have more work to do on my recovery and so to do what is best for Arizona I will step down this week I'm getting better every day. My spirit is high. I will return and we will work together for Arizona and this great country."